If you are experiencing an unusual feeling when trying to pass a bowel movement or see a red mass coming from the rectum, contact Houston Colon right away. You likely have what medical professionals call a rectal prolapse, meaning that the rectum has fallen from its normal positioning. Though this may sound frightening, rectal prolapse frequently only becomes severe when the issue is not adequately addressed by professionals. Learn more about this condition and how we are the Houston, TX area’s first choice when it comes to comprehensive colorectal care.

What Causes Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse can occur as a result of many conditions. The reason and level of prolapse will look different for every patient, and our team of professionals will access your specific issue to give you an idea of what treatment may look like. Some of the most common causes of rectal prolapse include the following:

  • Severe straining caused by chronic diarrhea or constipation or straining work out
  • Weakening of the muscles and ligaments in the rectum and anus due to old age
  • The general weakening of the anal sphincter
  • The previous injury is done to the anal or pelvic area
  • Damage to the nerves that control the contractions of the rectum and anus muscles
  • Other conditions such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis, an infection in the intestines, etc.

Diagnosing and Treating Rectal Prolapse

More times than not, patients come to us already knowing they have experienced some form of rectal prolapse. The signs are pretty hard to ignore, as most people express pain in the area, as well as leaking blood, feces, or mucus coming from the anus. Most notably, rectal prolapse is often accompanied by the feeling of a “ball” within the anus or seeing a red mass protruding from the anal opening. No matter the condition, if something down below doesn’t feel right, be sure to reach out to medical professionals for help. In the case of rectal prolapse, things like diet changes and targeted exercises are often not enough to rectify the condition, making surgery your best bet to optimal recovery. The good news is, we proudly offer minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery so you can receive the lasting relief you need and deserve when other solutions aren’t working.